Although he has already made his first senior appearance for Liverpool in a pre-season friendly against Blackburn Rovers, last night signaled the first high-profile appearance of the young Irish 'keeper, Caoimhin Kelleher.
Playing the second-half of Liverpool's International Champions Cup clash against Manchester City in New Jersey's MetLife Stadium, the 19-year-old gave a good account of himself; including one particularly good save from a Leroy Sane effort.
Good save Kelleher to deny Sane after explosive play from Bolton down the City right. #LFC
— Neil Jones (@neiljonesgoal) July 26, 2018
Although not too many on this side of the world would have been staying up until the wee hours to catch sight of Kelleher's appearance live, one club was particularly keen on how the young 'keeper got on.
Unbelievable to see caoimhin kelleher play 45 min vrs man city last night ⚽️⚽️
— Ringmahon Rangers (@RingmahonRanger) July 26, 2018
After a scoreless 0-0, City would take the lead through Sane shortly after Kelleher's wonderful save. However, replicating a touch of last season's ruthlessness, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane would strike to give Jurgen Klopp's side a 2-1 win.
Joining Liverpool in the summer of 2015, Caoimhin Kelleher has developed at a steady pace. Although the recent world-record signing of Alisson would lead one to suspect we shan't be seeing him taking hold of the #1 jersey at Anfield anytime soon, the departure of Danny Ward may well provide Kelleher with a much needed boost in playing time.
Having been the 'keeper of choice for Liverpool's U23s, Ward's move to Leicester City may well present Kelleher with the chance of more competitive football.
Internationally, Kelleher has been a regular feature in Ireland's U19s; having previously represented the U17s at the European Championships.
